 Woah, a Flash Gordon driving suit may be obligatory with this one. The “i-unit” is a “personal mobility” concept vehicle by Toyota. Specially created for the launch of EXPO 2005 in Aichi, to reflect the environmental theme.
Toyota, perhaps straining for a natural metaphor, says the open “i-unit” design is inspired by the leaf. They say it “converts sunlight into life energy, seeks to express the power of the unknown, the logic of living things and the simple beauty of waste-free functionality.” The body is built using environmentally friendly plant-based materials such as kenaf.
The i-unit creates a seamless transformation between the vehicle and human movement, minimizing occupied space and energy consumption with its lightweight and ultra compact size. Its components are made with decomposable and recyclable materials to reduce impact on the environment.
The concept operates in an upright and horizontal mode. Its small size enables the driver to move among people in an upright position in low speed mode. The i-unit reclines in high-speed mode and its low center of gravity ensures stable handling.
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